Jul 29th2013Sheriff Hall

Sheriff Wendell Hall

2000-2016

Sheriff Hall began serving the people of Santa Rosa County when he was elected Sheriff in 2000. He subsequently ran for three more terms and won each of those re-elections. He is the first Sheriff in Santa Rosa County to have been elected and re-elected to four terms. Since his first term his office has been readily accessible to the community and has always endorsed an “Open Door” policy for all. He strived to ensure excellence, accountability, and integrity in the management and conduct of Sheriff’s Office programs and policies. Under his direction he established collaborative partnerships with schools, businesses, and the community. A modified COMSTAT program to analyze and map crime data, and officer performance. Departmental accreditation, relocation of district offices, enhanced gun range, and K9 unit were some of the items on his agenda. The implementation to locate and eradicate growth of marijuana and other illegal drugs with greater quality training for all personnel involved.

Sheriff Hall was born in Atmore, AL on January 27, 1949. He attended Ernest Ward High School, Walnut Hill, FL. He continued his education at Pensacola State College and then at Troy State University he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Cum Laude. He has also continued to attend seminars and training classes to be up to date with the latest in law enforcement and ways to try to prevent crime.

He began his law enforcement career over 31 years ago as a Correction’s Officer with Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. Eventually he transferred to Law Enforcement and served the public as a Patrol Deputy; Narcotics Investigator/Supervisor; and Administrative Supervisor. He was promoted during this time to the rank of Corporal and Sergeant. He became a Certified Hostage Negotiator; Firearms Instructor and Field Training Officer. During his tenure at the Escambia Sheriff’s Office he received special recognition for “Outstanding Service to the Community”, 1984; a Meritorious Service Award, 1992; as well as many achievement awards. He also served as a Reserve Deputy and Volunteer Fireman for many years.

Sheriff Hall has been involved in the civic community of Santa Rosa County for a number of years. During his time he has received numerous recognitions for his service. He received the Elk’s Lodge #2787 “Law Enforcement Officer of the Year”, 2003-04 & 2006-07; Florida Council on Crime & Delinquency “Law Enforcement Distinguished Service Award” 2003; NW Florida Area Rotary Clubs “Ethic in Business Award” 2009: Santa Rosa County Chamber “Man of the Year” 2010.

His volunteer service to the community to aid in a better quality of life for the citizens include serving as the Executive Director for the Santa Rosa Kids House, 2008-present; Florida Sheriff’s Association District 1 Board of Directors, 2005-2007, 2012-present; United Way of Santa Rosa County Chairman, 2002; Vets to VA Clinic Committee, 2011-present; Think First of NW Florida; WWII Veterans to Washington DC Committee; NW Florida 1st Judicial Circuit Law Enforcement President 2002-2003.

He is married to his wife Karen, has three children, and 11 grandchildren.